October 2010 Volume 6 Issue 2
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Title
A Case Study of Technology Integration in an EFL Classroom

Author
Zhu Ming
Jiangsu Polytechnic University
China

Biodata
Zhu Ming is an Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics in the School of Foreign Languages at Jiangsu Polytechnic University, China. She holds an M.A. in Applied Linguistics from Shanghai International Studies University. Her areas of research include second language acquisition, technology-enhanced language learning, TEFL pedagogy, and pragmatics. She has published the book College English Extensive Reading (Nanjing Normal University Press, 2006).

Abstract

This study examines the evaluation of technology integration in a Chinese English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) classroom. It focuses on the description of the effectiveness of web-based instructional environments (WBIEs) facilitated by the WebNing course management system. Data used for analysis include an online survey and oral interviews. The study demonstrates that students perceive the use of web-based instruction (WBI) as advantageous. Findings show students feel WBI enhances their classroom experience by (1) developing writing skills through online essays; (2) improving communication skills through online discussion; and (3) providing greater learner autonomy. Furthermore, web-based learning empowers students to be actively involved in the learning process and to be responsible for their own learning. As technology-enhanced instruction is relatively new in China, the findings of this study can provide a useful reference point for Chinese English teachers contemplating the implementation of WBI.

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